Some people find it exciting to start a new writing project. Not me. I would much rather tackle revision.
In the beginning—anything can happen. Anything. Just the thought of sitting down and beginning causes a little flutter in my stomach, a breathlessness in my throat. I know it’s fear. Fear that has the power to stop me cold. Fear whispering in a thousand voices, all in my own mind. Once upon a time I tried to reason with this fear. I tried to argue with it, to threaten it, wrestle it, ignore it, outlast it. I tried with all my mind and heart to overcome it. I could not make fear go away. Then I learned fear is a cat. When it purrs in my ear and rubs it’s back against my leg, I smile. “Hello, Kitty,” I say, and reach down and pet the cat. “I see you. I know who you are and where you come from.” The cat lays back its ears. I give its head a little scratch. “Don’t mind me,” I say. “I’m starting a new story.” The cat curls at my feet and goes to sleep.
Jan Myhre
12/10/2010 09:31:58 am
Sitting here in St. John Florida reading your blog for the first time. We share so many favorite experiences it's like ready my journal only better. My goal shall be to write as clear and concise as you have done. Thank you, Mary Comments are closed.
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I'm fascinated to discover little-known history, stories of people and events that provide a new perspective on why and how things happened, new voices that haven't been heard, insight into how the past brought us here today, and how it might guide us to a better future.
I also post here about my books and feature other authors and their books on compelling and important historical topics. Occasionally, I share what makes me happy, pictures of my garden, recipes I've made, events I've attended, people I've met. I'm always happy to hear from readers in the blog comments, by email or social media. Archives
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